Why Is Red Wine Good For Your Heart?

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By Sara Novak, Planet Green

I stand by the research that my guilty pleasure, red wine is so loaded with antioxidants that itís necessary to indulge in it regularly. Itís known for polyphenols found in grapes, which protect the body from free radicals that damage cells. Damaged cells can lead to a host of ailments down the line as well as aging.

Red wine has been specifically associated with cardiovascular health. While it makes sense that this results from the protection of cells in the body that lead to the breakdown of the cardiovascular system, a new study published in Food Research International points to more precise benefits.

According to Nutra Ingredients, red wine actually protects the Omega 3 fatty acids already in the body, which in turn protect the heart.

“The result of the present study indicate that red wine polyphenols protect omega 3 PUFA more than omega 6 PUFA of plasma,” said the researchers led by Roberta Cazzola from the University of Milan, Italy.

Essential fatty acids are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids made from linolenic, linoleic, and oleic acids. The two essential forms are Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids and they are referred to as essential because the body cannot produce them on its on. They must be a part of your diet. Essential fatty acids regulate blood clotting, blood pressure, blood lipid levels, and the body’s response to injury and infection.

The study investigated the omega fatty acids involved in inflammation, specifically DHA and EPA and found they were less vulnerable to breaking down in the body with the help of polyphenols. It’s undoubtedly a reason to keep sipping (in moderation of course).

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Planet Green is the multi-platform media destination devoted to the environment and dedicated to helping people understand how humans impact the planet and how to live a more environmentally sustainable lifestyle. Its two robust websites, PlanetGreen.com and TreeHugger.com, offer original, inspiring, and entertaining content related to how we can evolve to live a better, brighter future. Planet Green is a division of Discovery Communications.

53 comments

I also read an article on Planet Green on this subject as well. I found it here http://planetgreen.discovery.com/food-health/why-is-red-wine-good-for-your-heart.html
I found it very interesting and thought to comment on another article i read regarding the test findings on this subject. Not sure what I think? what do you think?

A GLASS OR TWO IN THE EVENING CAN HELP FIGHT BLOOD PRESSURE ISSUES. YOU DO NOT NEED TO DRINK A GALLON. MY BROTHER CHOOSE NOT TO GO ON MEDS FOR HIS CARDIO ISSUES. INSTEAD HE WANTED TO TRY A HEALTHIER LIFE STYLE, EXERCISE, BETTER EATING AND RED WINE AT NIGHT. IT WORKED!